Council approves up to $97,315 for replacement police vehicle; staff to negotiate price

The Bel Air City Council voted unanimously to approve an amended ordinance authorizing the city manager to execute documentation to purchase one replacement marked patrol vehicle for a maximum price of $97,315.23. Police Chief Jason Hester explained the request followed the total loss of a patrol unit after a crash and that the city received an insurance payment.

"What I'm asking for is the authority not to exceed the 97, $315.23 that is in the packet," Hester said, explaining the department would negotiate base price and vendor and that higher costs reflected ballistic glass options and underbody protection for durability. Council discussed options for reusing equipment from totaled units and emphasized cost control; the motion to adopt the amended ordinance passed unanimously by voice vote.